5 Ways to Alleviate Tension and Bond With Your Squad

Do you ever wonder how winning teams keep it up all year? Or how some companies seem to foster such positive work environments? I’ll tell you how: #teamwork. That word is synonymous with success. Every single time you witness an amazing concert, game or show, or even just walk into a retail store and have a great customer experience, it’s because a strong team has come together to make something wonderful happen.

How can you foster that energy in your own team? Whether your team comprises your family, your co-workers, your friends or your parter, I have five simple tips that can apply to any team that needs a little reinvigoration. This is a basic formula that works for any situation — just make the commitment to focus and follow through, and you’ll start to see results. Ready? Let’s do it!

1. Host a pizza and movie night at your home. Choose something light-hearted with a message about coming together, like “The Breakfast Club” or “Caddyshack.” These classic ’80s movies are great for a mindless giggle, so you can talk, laugh and lighten up the energy of the crew.

2. Play a trivia game. Create some special questions involving all parties, relating to moments that are memorable or funny. Choose questions that will make people feel special when they know the answers. By the end of this game, everyone will be laughing and feeling more bonded — it’s a great way to ignite your team spirit. Hand out small, $5 gag gifts as prizes to take it to the next level.

3. Shoot your group a text, asking, “How’s everyone feeling about summer being X days away?” Plan something for everyone to look forward to, like a drive out to the beach on the first day of June.

4. Get everyone together for a workout. Research your area for what fitness classes are available to groups, and find one that everyone will love. Grab a juice afterward, and praise everyone in the group for trying! The energy and endorphins will really fire you up, so this is a good opportunity to bring up any issues you might want to talk about, getting to the root of why you brought the team together. Just remember it’s all in the delivery, so be nice, be open and be honest.

5. Who could forget last week’s Super Bowl, where the Patriots were losing so badly but never gave up? Be the Patriots. Always be the one who goes back in and tries to make things better. Be the hero of your team!

Stacey Griffith is a senior master instructor at SoulCycle and the author of the upcoming book Two Turns From Zero. Stacey’s motivational coaching style combines a passion for dance, athleticism and mind-blowing music — all set to the beat of her voice. Follow her on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.